Brecon Jazz Festival

The Brecon Jazz Festival is an annual celebration of jazz music held in Brecon, Wales. Since its inception in 1984, it has become a vibrant cultural event, attracting world-class musicians and thousands of visitors to the picturesque town nestled in the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Quick Facts

When is it? Early August (2025: August 8–10)
Tagged as: A premier jazz festival in Wales
What’s the hashtag? #BreconJazz
When was it founded? 1984
Who founded it? Jed Williams and local enthusiasts

History of Brecon Jazz Festival

The Brecon Jazz Festival was inspired by New Orleans-style jazz events and began as a community-driven celebration. Founded by local enthusiasts, including Jed Williams, the first festival in 1984 featured performances in streets, pubs, and cafes. Over time, it grew into a globally recognized event with performances from legends like Amy Winehouse and Van Morrison. Today, it remains a cornerstone of Wales’ cultural calendar.

Timeline

1984: The first festival is held with George Melly as a performer.
1990s: Gains international reputation with big-name artists.
2009: Introduces the “Blue Plaque” award for significant jazz venues.
2016: Managed by Brecon Jazz stakeholders group.
2025: Plans for expanded programming and new venues.

Brecon Jazz Festival Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	August 8–10	Friday-Sunday
2026	August 7–9	Friday-Sunday
2027	August 6–8	Friday-Sunday
2028	August 11–13	Friday-Sunday
2029	August 10–12	Friday-Sunday
2030	August 9–11	Friday-Sunday

Observed at Brecon Jazz Festival

The Brecon Jazz Festival transforms the town of Brecon into a lively hub of music and culture. Performances take place across venues like Market Hall, The Muse, and outdoor stages. Visitors can enjoy free street performances, ticketed concerts, and fringe events hosted by local businesses. The festival fosters a sense of community while showcasing the best of international and Welsh jazz talent.

Fun Facts About Brecon Jazz Festival

It was modeled after New Orleans-style jazz festivals.
Many global jazz legends have performed here, including Hugh Masekela and Dionne Warwick.
The festival includes a “Fringe” event with free performances across town.

Quiz

When was the first Brecon Jazz Festival held?
Which famous singer compared the festival to New Orleans events?
What is the hashtag for the festival?
Where is the festival located?
Who was one of the key founders of the event?

(Answers: 1. 1984; 2. George Melly; 3. #BreconJazz; 4. Brecon, Wales; 5. Jed Williams)

FAQs

What is Brecon Jazz Festival?
It’s an annual jazz festival held in Brecon, Wales.
When does it take place?
Usually in early August.
Who organizes it?
A group of local volunteers and stakeholders.
What type of music is featured?
Primarily jazz, including traditional, contemporary, and experimental styles.
Are there free events?
Yes, street performances and fringe events are free to attend.

Importance of Brecon Jazz Festival

The Brecon Jazz Festival is vital for preserving jazz culture while promoting local talent alongside international stars. It boosts tourism in Wales by drawing thousands to the scenic market town each year. Moreover, its community-driven ethos fosters inclusivity and creativity, making it a cherished event for music lovers worldwide.